The Bright Beginnings Early Childhood Development Initiative was built on seven core principles — find them on page four of the countywide Strategic Framework. These principles are our guiding constellation as we design and prioritize our work. When the going gets tough — and these days it’s been tough for Monterey County — it is helpful to go back to these core beliefs.
In the smoky skies, the three guiding stars that have shone the brightest are equity, interconnection, and co-creation. The Bright Beginnings Backbone and many of the initiative’s partners are participating in the countywide Governing for Racial Equity training series, bringing a common understanding and commitment to ending structural racism. The collaboration in the Child Care & Wellbeing COVID Response & Recovery Coalition reminds us that we are stronger when we work together, across disciplines and sectors. And when the voices of children and those who care for them rise to the top, it points us to the solutions that will make a real difference. For example, a team of various community-based organizations had conversations with almost 900 families, finding that basic needs like food and shelter, economic stability, and mental health have been most pressing. Read the report here in Spanish and here in English.